Question
I'm in Charlotte, NC and planted late tomatoes.  They seem to be healthy and are producing.  Recently I've noticed leaves at the top of the plants are disappearing and look as if they've been clipped off.  I haven't see any insects on the plants at least not during the day.  What am I dealing with?

Answer
Penny, you didn't mention how tall these plants are, but it sounds like some type of animal is eating the leaves. Insects would leave holes, but seldom devour entire leaves.

The animal could be a deer, rabbit, or groundhog. This is quite common in home gardens. You can place chicken wire around the plant to protect it. There are also tomato cages that will help keep the critters away from the plants.

One other option is to purchase a Havahart trap. These are live traps that will not harm the animal. You can then transport it to a park or another location. If it is a deer, there is little you can do beside trying the chicken wire.

If you see the animal and need more ideas on how to deter it, write me back with more specifics, and I will do my best to respond.

Good luck.

Mike